SECURITY for drivers parking at Middlesbrough’s Clairville Stadium has received an official seal of approval with the granting of the police-backed Safer Parking Award.

The recently refurbished car park on Park Road South has been assessed as having a user-friendly, non-threatening environment.

The assessment also says it has good, clearly marked bays, good signage and good management practices, and the area is well lit, has CCTV and a very low crime rate.

Gerry McBride, Middlesbrough Council’s corporate security officer, said: “The award isn’t just about security, it’s also about the ‘feel’ of the car park. This is the second of our site car parks - the TAD Centre has already been recognised - to achieve the award and we will strive to achieve the Safer Parking Award across our other car parks as and when the opportunity arises.”

Superintendent Steve Sugden, Middlesbrough’s district commander, said: “We’ve made huge reductions in vehicle crime in Middlesbrough in recent years.

“It’s really important for people to be confident their cars will still be there when they return.

“Schemes like this mean we can give people that confidence and help to make sure the town is seen to be a safe place in which to live, work and socialise.”

Phil Taylor from the British Parking Association said Safer Parking is a scheme which set standards for parking facilities and safety.

“The car park facilities not only address potential crime but more importantly the fear of crime. Users should feel safe in the knowledge their vehicle is more likely to be there and in one piece when they return to it.”

Brenda Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive councillor for public health and sport, said: “I’m delighted to see work to make our car parks safer for all who use them is gaining recognition and that in turn puts the criminal fraternity on the back foot.”